Tuesday, 31 January 2012

Carrying on our 'New Year, new home' decorating series, here are our next 2 top tips for decorating the kids' rooms.

Tip #3 Use space wisely

Create defined zones for sleep, work and play. If children are sharing a room divide the room by using different accessories such as lamps, shelves and pictures that complement each other but are different enough to define each child’s separate space. This adorable set by artist Alison Jay would make a lovely pair for instance.

Rugs are a great way to divide floor space without creating a physical barrier in a room. Giving each child their own special space gives them a sense of ownership and a place in which they can take pride.

Tip #4 Keep it clean

The secret to a tidy room is often in the amount of clever storage. Keep large colourful tubs (such as these available from www.gltc.co.uk), boxes or trunks that can be used to store toys, crafts and books easily. If there is a place for everything tidy-up-time will be a breeze and your happy space will stay a happy place!

Monday, 30 January 2012

Once we have rung in the New Year and safely packed away the Christmas decorations for another year I always feel the need for a little bit of decorating to spruce up the house. I have been told that I am not alone in this need to revamp so we thought we would do a little series to help anyone else who loves a bit of 'New Year, new home' decorating with tips and ideas for decorating the kids' rooms which can sometimes feel a bit daunting. Over the next few days we will be giving you our top tips in the hope that this inspires you to dust off your paint brush and breathe some fun and creativity into your little one's spaces.

Tip #1 Getting started

Using a neutral backdrop for the bedroom walls and bedding is always a great way to get started. Then introduce bright colours and patterns with accessories, such as cushions, wall stickers or pictures. Try including images that are both friendly and educational to create a positive and stimulating atmosphere. Designs such as the one below (by artist Laila Hills) are filled with fun and offer a great way to engage a child by asking questions like, can you name all the animals?, where do you think they live? What colours are they? Let’s make up a story about them!

Tip #2 Let them put their own stamp on it

Allowing children to put their stamp on their bedroom can encourage them to spend more time in it and make it truly feel their own.Make a special place for their treasured possessions; such as a favourite teddy, toy or blanket. Display it on a shelf where they can access it easily or give it a special place on the bed. Include photos of favourite memories with family and friends that make them feel comforted.Display art and craft projects that have been completed by them at school or together with a loved one. Having a piece of their own art on the wall is sure to instil a sense of accomplishment when they see it each day. Why not use something like this handy wall art holder; it comes with loads of pockets, perfect for displaying more than one masterpiece! (Available from www.gltc.co.uk).

Tuesday, 24 January 2012

Recently we caught up with our talented watercolour artist Jennifer Ziliotto! Read what she had to say in the second addition of our fabulous feature ‘Interview with an Artist’. Don’t forget that as part of our feature you can save a massive 30% on all Jennifer’s art now.

How would you best describe your style of art?Fun, colourful and magical.

What is your most loved childhood memory?One of my favourite childhood memories is when I first saw a sunflower in the back garden of a neighbour’s house. I couldn't believe that a flower could be bigger than me! I think that's why I am always painting sunflowers.

Which artist do you admire the most?There are so many artists I admire. But to choose one I would say Van Gogh for his spirit and maybe the sunflowers?

If you could recommend just one book for everyone to read what would it be?Hmmm another tough question …because there are so many but to narrow it down to one Paolo Coelho's The Alchemist. A great story about life.

If you could be a cartoon character for a day who would you be?I would like to be Pippi Longstockings for a day.

What was your favourite toy as a child?My favourite toy was my Raggedy Ann doll that my mum made for me.

What is your HAPPY SPACE?My happy space is my garden I love it. No matter the weather it brings me joy, peace of mind and inspiration.

Monday, 23 January 2012

I just had to share this with you all, the latest work of art by my son who is only 4 years old. I know it's probably over the top to get excited about the colouring within the lines and the appropriate use of colour but I so am - completely and utterly excited and proud as only a mother could be! I think this is awesome.... and check his name *big proud grin*! Budding artist? Yeah, I think so!

Have you seen our amazing new map that has recently been added to the site? Designed especially for us by the awesome Ian Cunliffe, it is bright, bold, educational and above all fun! We love it and want to join in and throw our own paper aeroplane! Available to buy now at www.happyspaces.co.uk for £64.95.

"AS SEEN IN HOMES & GARDENS"

"AS SEEN IN JUNIOR"

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Welcome to the Happy Spaces blog! HappySpaces.co.uk is an online gallery that provides a central place to buy beautiful, unique, finely crafted wall art that is just for kids!
We work closely with a group of exceptionally talented artists, who come from all over the world, to offer you designs that are refreshingly different, exciting and fun for children.
All our canvas prints are made with love, care and attention to detail. Come and visit us at happyspaces.co.uk to be dazzled by our growing collection!